LA studying car-living program

SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A Santa Barbara, Calif., program that allows people to live in their cars in selected parking lots is being considered as a model for Los Angeles.

The 5-year-old program, administered by the New Beginnings Counseling Center, allows people to live in cars and RVs in parking lots owned by the city, the county, churches, non-profits and a few businesses, the Los Angeles Times reported Monday.

The Venice Neighborhood Council in Los Angeles is studying the program with Los Angeles City Councilman Bill Rosendahl as a possible solution to the increased crowding of city blocks brought about by an influx of people living in their cars.

"The streets aren't meant for living -- it's not acceptable," said Mike Newhouse, president of the Venice Neighborhood Council. "And most folks here think it's not acceptable that anyone should be forced to live in a vehicle."

Santa Barbara's Safe Parking program employs caseworkers who check in with those allowed to live in the lots and help them obtain jobs, medical attention and car repairs. The caseworkers also assist those involved in the program with the process of applying for low-income housing.